What exactly did India do?

On the issue of the UNSC condemning the actions of Russia in Ukraine; India, China and the UAE abstained. The real outcome of the UNSC vote was never in doubt since Russia has veto power and the move was easily vetoed by Russia. India’s stand on the issue came in for a lot of criticism since it had abstained despite being exhorted by Ukraine to intervene and sort out the issue with the aggressor. But, India’s stand is rational. 

Standing by old friends

Much of the developed typically works and votes in tandem at the behest of the US. However, Russia has been one of the key backers of India in tough times. For instance, during 1971 War, most of the Western world was inclined to favor Pakistan with only Russia coming forward to support India. This was again visible in 1998, in the aftermath of nuclear tests conducted by the Vajpayee government. The US and most of the western nations imposed sanctions on India while Russia stood up in support. Diplomacy has a special place for old friends and India has just shown its commitment to Russia. Forget rhetoric, the vote is perfectly justified. 

Action matter more than words

While most of the West is very keen to sell arms and other goods to India, they have failed to stand by India in times of challenging situations. During the 1965 war and the 1971 war, the US clearly sided with Pakistan. There has been no condemnation of the persistent acts of terrorism in Kashmir in the past, mostly perpetrated by Pakistan. The world also never condemned the incursion of China in Galwan 4 years back. The west has considered Kashmir as a territory that is occupied by the Indian army. However, they rarely express such sentiments in the case of Palestine or Gaza. It is quite surprising how the western conscience suddenly wakes up when it suits them. 

Russia may have a reason

Behind the veneer of American concern, is a more basic problem Russia faces. They have also been subjected to the typical western double standards. The US and other western allies have just no compunction about expanding the reach of NATO against the spirit of all that was agreed upon at the time of the collapse of the USSR in 1991. However, they do not want Russia to take defensive action to protect their interests. As the next step, India must also use this vote to cement ties with Russia and China. That gives a solid Eastern support bloc and India must be a part of that. That is the only way to keep our borders safe and keep the western world guessing!